By Myke Uzendu
State chapters of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Rivers and Imo have rejected a lawsuit filed against the party’s national leadership at the Federal High Court in Abuja, describing the action as unauthorized and not reflective of the party’s collective position.
In separate statements issued over the weekend, the two chapters distanced itselves from the suit reportedly instituted by a factional figure, Nafiu, who is said to have approached the court claiming leadership of the party. The chapters maintained that neither their state structures nor their executives were consulted before the legal action was initiated.
The Imo State chapter stressed that it is not a party to the suit, warning that such litigations are capable of creating unnecessary confusion within the party. It reaffirmed its loyalty to the national leadership led by David Mark, expressing confidence in the party’s internal mechanisms for resolving disputes.
Similarly, the Rivers State chapter dismissed the court action, emphasizing its commitment to internal democracy, the rule of law, and party unity. The chapter cautioned individuals against presenting personal legal actions as decisions taken on behalf of the party.
Party stakeholders in both states expressed concern that the suit, which seeks to challenge the legitimacy of the current leadership, could undermine ongoing efforts to strengthen the party ahead of future political activities.
They urged members to avoid actions that could weaken party cohesion, insisting that disputes should be handled through established internal processes rather than the courts.
The chapters further called on party faithful to remain focused on building a stronger and more united ADC, reiterating that the leadership under Mark remains duly recognized within the party structure.
The development comes amid growing political realignments within opposition parties, with the ADC positioning itself as a major platform for coalition-building ahead of the 2027 general elections.
